Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most photographed buildings on Earth - a fairy-tale silhouette perched on a rocky ridge above the village of Hohenschwangau in the Bavarian Alps. Built for the reclusive King Ludwig II, it inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle and still draws well over a million visitors a year.

The setting is spectacular: the Pöllat Gorge and Mount Tegelberg rise to the south, while the lake-dotted foothills of the Alps stretch out to the north. In summer the white limestone façade glows against green meadows and forests, while in winter snow-capped turrets and battlements create an especially romantic scene. Inside, the Throne Hall, the King's bedroom and the Singers' Hall immerse visitors in medieval legend and Wagnerian opera.

How to get there

• Hohenschwangau (parking, ticket centre) — approx. 35-40 minutes uphill on foot, easy, well-paved path
• Alternative: horse-drawn carriage or shuttle bus to a viewpoint near the castle, followed by a short walk

Practical information

• Tickets only available at the ticket centre in Hohenschwangau (online or on site)
• Castle interior only accessible on guided tours, about 35 minutes long
• Up to 10,000 visitors a day during peak season (June-August) - booking ahead is recommended
• Marienbrücke bridge nearby offers the classic postcard view of the castle and gorge

Ludwig II never intended the castle to be open to the public and lived there for only 172 days in total - yet today Neuschwanstein is one of Europe's most recognisable landmarks.